This is a photo of me with my father. I spoke at an Environmental and Climate Justice program of the NAACP in 2012 and spoke about the story of my coal-miner paternal grandfather. His health complications were my encouragement to get involved in environmental justice and issues of preservation; but, more importantly, my father's willingness to share that story and ensure that our family is aware of how we are directly effected by the adverse impacts of environmental injustices (particularly involving coal) motivates my efforts.

Clean Air Ambassador | Gahanna, Ohio

Tyiesha Radford

Everything from asthma to emphysema to bronchitis, immune disorders and more can often trace their origins to pollution. Clean air is important to me because a disproportionate number of these cases can be found within marginalized communities with low incomes and little healthcare coverage.

I am motivated to go to Washington, D.C. to interface with the law makers responsible for crafting legislation that regulates commercial industries primarily responsible for pollutants and learn what I can do to effectively advocate for my community. I am still learning about what parameters Congress, President Obama, and the EPA have regarding environmental initiatives; however, I would like to see stronger enforcement of regulations that are already in place so that affected communities can enjoy clean air and socially responsible commercial neighbors. I would also like to ask my senator what comprehensive plans he has to improve clean air regulation in the state of Ohio. Ohio is one of the top ten states with commercial buildings that pollute the air, either because the building is old or the company disregards legislation.

As a Clean Air Ambassador, I am determined to advocate for Ohioans and equip other state residents so that they can effectively advocate on their own behalf. It is my hope that my advocacy can help members of all impacted communities to breathe easy.

As a Clean Air Ambassador, I am determined to advocate for Ohioans and equip other state residents so that they can effectively advocate on their own behalf. It is my hope that my advocacy can help members of all impacted communities to breathe easy.